In 1995 Deaf community leaders, Pinellas County school administrators, teachers, audiologists, and speech pathologists recognized that there was a severe lack of support and resources for Deaf and hard of hearing youth. They came together to establish after school support. As the youth grew so did the program. In 2003 Family Center on Deafness (FCD) was incorporated as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Today FCD is recognized as a leader not only within Pinellas County, but also statewide and nationwide, as a model for providing services and programs to families with Deaf and hard of hearing children. FCD has set the standard for what programs need to be established to meet the responsibilities of a community that cares about its children, parents, and extended family members. FCD is committed to supporting Deaf and hard of hearing students and their families ensuring they lead successful, interactive, and meaningful lives.